Every devout Hindu in India has visited the Kumbh Mela once in his lifetime.
Considered to be the most pious pilgrimages for Hindus, people travel from
far and wide to immerse themselves in the confluence of the holy waters of
the Ganga, Yamuna, and Sarawasti to purify their souls.
A brief history
As per legends, Lord Vishnu was carrying a Kumbh (pot) of amrit (nectar),
when a fight broke out and four drops of the nectar fell in four parts of the
earth and these were called Tirthas or a place where the devout can attain
salvation. The four tirthas were Prayag, Haridwar, Nasik, and Ujjain. So every
three years, a mela or a congregation is held at each tirtha in turn; to
celebrate this event and it is called the Kumbh Mela. Also, once in twelve
years the largest of the Kumbh Melas is held at the Sangam, also called
Tirtharaj, the ‘King of Tirthas’ in Allahabad. Called the Maha Kumbh Mela, it is
considered the greatest and holiest of all melas. It is held at the confluence of
the three holy rivers of India- Ganga, Yamuna, and Sarwasti.
Maha Kumbh Mela
The Maha Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious congregation in India and
millions of devotees come to attain salvation during this time. Tourists from
India and abroad make special trips to watch this month-long fair- to
experience the fervour of Indian religious gurus. Sadhus or religious ascetics
come from remote hideaways in the mountains, caves, and forests to attend
this mela. The event is commenced with the holy bath. Astrologers decide on
the propitious bathing time or Kumbhayog. The Naga Sadhus or Naga Babas,
who are seen as guardians of faith are the first ones to take a dip in the holy
water. Wearing hair in long dreadlocks and ash smeared all over their naked
bodies, they approach the confluence at the pre-decided time with the
bravado of a charging army reciting hymns in Sanskrit. This event
commences the Kumbh Mela, after which all those interested in taking a dip in
the water follow.
For tourists it is a sight to behold, watching millions of ash-laden religious
aestics entranced by the Lord. The festivity is seen all through the month with
religious songs playing, people praying, diyas or candles being lit and flown
into the water. It brings upon a sense of calm on the onlookers too. It is a
photographer’s delight to capturing the sights and songs of the mela with
Triveni Sangam as the backdrop.
Exploring Allahabad
Apart from the Mela, tourists can explore the other delights of Allahabad- a
city steeped in history and traditions. A treasure trove of monuments, ancient
temples, and museums, history enthusiasts can get lost exploring the nooks
and corners of Allahabad. The Hanuman temple is one of the most visited
places in the city. Renowned for the resting idol of Lord Hanuman, it is an

ancient temple. Legends say that when the Ganges ascends, it immerses the
temple as a way of seeking blessings from Lord Hanuman. Another must-see
the place is the Allahabad Fort. Standing tall since 1583, on the banks of the river
The Yamuna, this monument reeks of architectural splendor and history. Also,
worth visiting are the colonial period buildings like the Swaraj Bhawan. They
give a sneak peek into the history and magnificence of this beautiful city.
So be a part of the incessant hysteria at the Kumbh and explore the cultural
heritage of this colorful and vibrant country- India!

Website URL:- saiindiatravel.com